Experience the Magic of Christmas With the Polar Express

Polar Express Arizona is an enchanting train ride designed to bring Christmas magic to children of all ages, inspired by Chris Van Allsburg's beloved book and movie of the same name.

Williams, Arizona provides the setting for this magical experience! Situated just west of Flagstaff lies this picturesque Old Western village.

It’s a Holiday Tradition

Setting up a 6-foot-tall LED pinecone tree and taking a stroll around the Desert Botanical Garden with hot chocolate while gazing upon 8,000 luminaria may not feel like Christmas to many, but Arizona does feature plenty of iconic holiday traditions that help it feel festive, like taking the Polar Express train ride.

The event takes place aboard the Grand Canyon Railway, an historic train that is open for rides throughout the year and hosts other special events. However, during The Polar Express it becomes even more magical as passengers board wearing cozy pajamas and are welcomed by an author reading aloud from Chris Van Allsburg's story while pastry chefs serve up hot chocolate and cookies, creating an amazing combination of holiday magic and real-world adventure that's loved by families everywhere!

Note that train rides tend to sell out early into the season, so plan your arrival early so that you can check-in at the train station and take advantage of photo opps before your ride begins.

From the moment they step onboard, passengers will feel an immediate sense of excitement as their train winds its way through a peaceful wilderness, eventually arriving at Santa and his reindeer's magical North Pole to receive their special gift, creating an experience which is sure to put smiles on faces for years to come!

The Polar Express is an exciting holiday tradition perfect for families of all ages. To add an extra special touch, combine your ticket purchase with an overnight stay at either the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel in Williams or Flagstaff (there are other hotels as well); simply make sure that you leave enough time for exploring Williams before getting onboard!

It’s a Great Family Activity

As holiday activities go, few activities top a festive train ride to the North Pole like The Polar Express at Grand Canyon Railway in Williams near Arizona border.

Kids of all ages are welcome to attend, with many opting to wear their favorite pajamas for maximum coziness! Younger children may benefit from bringing along a stuffed animal and blanket. Tickets tend to sell quickly, so be sure to reserve them as soon as possible!

Make the experience truly magical by booking a combination package with Grand Canyon Railway Hotel, where you'll stay right at the station and can spend the night right there! This charming two-story building with homey decor makes a wonderful place for holiday photos with family while wearing Christmas pajamas!

Hotel's North Pole Experience features an unforgettable private visit with Santa and digital photo, adding an extra special touch to its train ride experience. Although additional charges apply, families seeking an unforgettable holiday memory should definitely make time for this memorable holiday adventure!

The Polar Express is an unforgettable family activity and experience everyone should indulge in at least once in their lifetime. Not only is it a special way to commemorate the holidays, but its legacy will live on as memories for years.

It’s a Unique Experience

The Polar Express Arizona experience is like no other holiday train ride in America. Don't miss this special train ride to get into the Christmas spirit with your family this holiday season!

The 90-minute train journey is a real-life adventure, complete with readings from the story, special treats and visits from Santa Claus himself! Departing from Williams' Grand Canyon Railway Hotel is full of charm. Consider staying an extra day or two so that you can explore this charming Route 66 destination!

Make sure to bring along your Christmas spirit and a wish for Santa when boarding the train! Once seated in a luxurious cabin transformed with twinkling lights and festive decor, once it sets off you will be transported directly to Santa's workshop at the North Pole where each child will receive an exclusive present from him!

Those planning a visit to The Polar Express Arizona this season should make sure to secure tickets well in advance as this popular train ride often sells out early in the season. Tickets may be purchased either online or at Grand Canyon Railway's ticket office in Williams.

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